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HONOLULU (AP) - A $7.3 million project that was supposed to improve traffic conditions at Honolulu International Airport is instead being criticized by drivers of taxis and shuttles who say congestion has increased.

The main object of criticism is a new traffic signal that has not been synchronized with existing traffic lights, KITV (https://is.gd/IAH1lX ) reported. Critics say it now takes almost double the amount of time to circle the airport.

Honolulu Airport Express owner Johnny Cheng said the traffic is getting worse, particularly at lunchtime when numerous flights are arriving.

“This whole area is like a parking lot,” Cheng said.

The signal near Hawaiian Airlines baggage claim C was activated May 10, and there have been three complaints lodged with the Hawaii Department of Transportation’s airports division.

“Obviously right now we’ve had some complaints, and we do want to make some adjustments,” Sluyter said. “They’ll be adjusting it back to flashing for now while they can figure out the correct synchronization.”

Taxi and shuttle drivers also say they’re concerned about another new traffic signal that is still flashing yellow on Aolele Street. They worry that traffic woes could intensify once that signal is activated.

Sluyter said the new signals are part of the state DOT’s roadway improvement project, which includes the demolition of a gas station and the refurbishment of elevators at the terminal and overseas parking structures.